Chicago's transit system is one of the easiest ways to explore a big American city without renting a car — 77 neighbourhoods, an elevated train loop downtown, buses running everywhere. But newcomers keep tripping over a handful of rules, some written into the Chicago Transit Authority's code of conduct and others purely social. Break them and you'll get the glare; a few come with actual fines.

The biggest sin: playing music or videos out loud on your phone. Locals consider it one of the rudest things you can do on the "L," and the CTA can fine you for it. Keep everything on headphones.

Luggage etiquette matters too, especially on the Blue Line from O'Hare, which gets packed with travellers on weekday evenings. CTA rules say you can only bring a large bag if you can manage it yourself in one trip, and rush hour is the real test — tuck your suitcase in, keep aisles clear, and never stand blocking the doors. Friday around 5 p.m. is the worst time to attempt it.

Eating and drinking on buses and trains is another rookie mistake, both because it's frowned upon and because spills happen constantly (locals on Reddit have stories about burst milk cartons and dumped drinks). You can eat inside the stations, so grab your slice of deep-dish before you board.

One rule surprises visitors from cities where it's normal: never walk between train cars on a moving "L" train. It's banned outright unless a CTA employee directs you — and locals are openly suspicious of anyone who does it. One longtime rider's verdict, shared in a local forum: most people crossing between cars are either causing trouble or running from it.

Finally, don't pay per ride. The Ventra card costs $5 and comes as a physical card from station machines, drugstores or online, or digitally through the app and Apple Wallet. One-day, three-day and seven-day unlimited passes exist, and every CTA bus and train also takes contactless payment straight from your phone or credit card. For anyone heading beyond the Loop to neighbourhoods like Old Town or Chinatown, it's the cheapest way to get around — money saved is money for another Chicago-style hot dog (no ketchup).

Follow these and you'll move through the Windy City like a resident rather than a tourist — quietly, door-free, and with your snacks finished before boarding.